I have unfortunately been in the emergenecy mode more than once.
Miles are very helpful and I have not had to use rule busters to claim.
In my situation I had miles for a ticket in 5 airlines and was willing to pay a reasonable fare
Northwest: had no mile or seat availability for 3 days ticket was offered as 20 % off $1740 full fare. Needless to say that didn't work
American: was able to utilize miles and pay $75 expedited fee as less than so many days before flight
I have to tell you in the situation, I didn't care about the $75 and I did not complain or written for a refund or waiver. I was thankful for the no hassle service and the seat. Some things are priceless.